She said, "Disaster awaits those who forget anniversaries."

In the entrance hall of the building, benches and tables are lined up. By chance, there was an empty four-person booth, so I sat down with some hesitation. If there's an empty bench seat later, I'll move there.

As soon as I sit down, a sigh escapes me, and my shoulders relax.

"Party..."

The words slip out unintentionally. For someone who considers themselves socially awkward, this is a heavy issue. It would be nice if the people I'm introduced to are good people. Of course, there will be background checks, so I probably won't end up with someone too strange. But if I do...

"I'll definitely complain."

The words come out filled with resentment. Well, who would I complain to? I want to stay on good terms with the higher-ups. Business is about talking to the top. If you don't have a horse, you can't talk about the rider. In that sense, the experienced Hartis is a good intermediary. I should connect with someone higher up soon.

As I glance up, I notice Deed and his group opening the door and entering the building. I had been vaguely aware of them before, so it's convenient. I need to thank them.

"Deed-san!"

I call out and wave my hand. They seem to notice me, and Deed and Arie are coming over. Wait, Watis isn't here.

"Akihiro-san. We were really helped by you this time."

Ah. That feels off. Did I forget to introduce myself? Not introducing oneself during a meeting is unusual. I think I was wary of him because of my first impressions, and I remember being somewhat confrontational. A bit embarrassing.

"Good morning, Deed-san. Thank you for carrying me when I lost consciousness. It must have been difficult."

"Really! You're so heavy but wobbly! It was really hard to carry... I thought about dropping him several times!" Wow. She jumps right in with that. Arie is as energetic as ever today. "But... thank you. Going through all that trouble to help me..."

Hmm? That's unexpectedly humble of her. Considering my weight, it must have been tough for her, but she still took the time to thank me.

"Aaah. This incident was really helpful. Plus, there was some unexpected income."

Seventy-five percent of a farmer's annual salary is significant. The request had an additional bonus of 200,000 for achieving it. That would be close to two or three months' worth of monthly income in the party.

"I owe you a favor now. I will definitely repay this someday."

Good. A favor has been established. The basics of being a professional are about creating debts and collecting them. They say "give and take," but it's only when the other person recognizes that they've received something that the cycle begins. In society, this "favor" is really important. The one who owes doesn't know the exact amount of the favor, especially if it involves saving a life. It's a bit underhanded, but because money isn't involved in such cases, the giver holds the power.

"I appreciate it. I'm still new and don't know much yet. Please help me out if anything comes up."

Reservations? What's that? Is it delicious? The basics of business are about getting verbal commitments. After obtaining them, you make them a fait accompli. This time, nothing was clearly stated. When all else fails, don't hesitate to ask for help.

"Aaah. Between guilds, the location and time when cards are read can be shared. If it's far away, send us a letter. We'll come running."

Wow. It's convenient that locations can be tracked. Since I plan to continue being an adventurer, supporting four people, there will likely be frequent requests. While talking about this, I notice Arie's bracelet. It's a thin gold band. As jewelry for adventurers, it feels a bit off.

"Arie-san, that bracelet is cute."

The moment I say it, Arie turns bright red. Hmm? Is it some kind of special item? Maybe a magical device?

"A... a... this one. This is the engagement bracelet from Deed. A... thank you. I'm happy you liked it."

From what I gather, in this continent's culture, when someone proposes marriage, the man gives the woman a bracelet as proof. It's like saying, "This is mine; don't touch it." During the wedding, they melt the bracelet and remake it into two rings for them. By the way, if you remarry multiple times, you first determine the order, and the first wife wears it on her left ring finger.

Hearing all this, my face pales. Oh no... I didn't give Riz anything.

It doesn't matter if I don't know or can't afford it. Girls value memories and promises above everything else. I remember when I was dating someone before and forgot her birthday, only to be scolded harshly. After getting married, forgetting our anniversary and then being looked down on with contempt before she silently went to bed alone—that bitter memory comes back.

"It's that so? Let me see."

I move closer to examine it. It's a thin gold bracelet with simple engravings—just one point—and no stones. On the back, Deed and Arie's names are engraved.

Alright, I've checked the details.

"The design is also cute. It's beautiful."

Arie turns even redder, but honestly, that's beside the point. My top priority has just been set.

"A... a... thank you."

"Now, I remember my errands. What are Deed-san and the others planning to do next? Are they staying in this village?"

"Aaah. It's a decently sized village. The northern forest is nearby, and the town isn't too far either. Plus, since we're the only 7th-level adventurers here, the guild will probably request us when it's time to move."

"I see. That must be tough for someone with such skills. Well, I'll catch up with you later."

"Ou. Later."

"Bye-bye."

Deed and Arie call out, but I barely hear them.

Boots? Spears? Those can wait. Even if it's just a spear, I should have said something earlier.

Bracelet... bracelet. Silversmith? I don't remember seeing one.

Jewelry... I think I saw some in a shop before. A thin bracelet like that—simple and not sure what to use it for.

I quickly stand up and leave the building.

Bracelet... bracelet.